1. Twentynine Palms park shooting victim identified as Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant
2. Man killed in shooting at Twentynine Palms park identified as Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The victim of the recent shooting at a Twentynine Palms park has been identified as 35-year-old Robert James McDonald, a Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant stationed in Twentynine Palms.
SSgt. Victoria Ross, spokesperson for the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, confirmed McDonald’s identity and expressed condolences to his family and fellow Marines.
Incident Details
The incident took place on Monday evening when Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a disturbance involving a group of around five individuals near Apline Avenue and Old Dale Road.
During the altercation, a resident approached the group, leading to a confrontation. The suspect then fired at the resident, who fortunately was not hit by the gunfire.
The suspect fled to Knott Sky Park, approximately a quarter mile away, where he encountered McDonald and his dog in a parked car. Without any apparent motive, the suspect shot into the car, injuring McDonald, who attempted to drive away but ultimately crashed into another occupied vehicle.
Tragically, McDonald was pronounced dead at the scene, while the occupants of the other vehicle sustained minor injuries.
Condolences and Support
SSgt. Ross expressed the Marine Corps’ grief over the loss of Sergeant McDonald and highlighted their efforts to provide support to his family and fellow Marines during this challenging time.
“The command is grieving with the family and fellow Marines of the deceased and is working diligently to provide them with much-needed support during this difficult time.”
-SSgt. Ross, Public Affairs Chief, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms
Further Coverage
News Channel 3 will continue to follow this story as Bianca Ventura speaks with Sergeant McDonald’s family, friends, and fellow Marines as they pay tribute to him at a candlelight vigil and march.
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– Man killed in Twentynine Palms park shooting identified as Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant
– 35-year-old Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant identified as victim in Twentynine Palms park shooting.
